For many teachers the end of our annual winter break is here. With any luck we found rest, enjoyed our key relationships, and even got a chance for recreation. Without a doubt, many teachers like me also got caught up on schoolwork. I provided feedback on a lot of student writing, created two class websites, wrote a letter of recommendation, answered emails, sent emails, and set up Canvas (my school district’s online learning platform) for the upcoming second semester. The major consolation with doing a lot of work on break is that I get to do it in my pajamas, at my own pace, with a hot cup of coffee.
In my 24th year as a teacher, one would think I’d have it figured out by now. I should know how to plan and organize so that winter break is truly a break. But, it’s impossible to just figure it out and go on autopilot from there. The websites, emails, and learning platforms of this break haven’t always been a part of my career, and I think it’s safe to assume that in future years other new additions to education that I can’t even conceive of will arise. Research and technological advancements make teaching an ever-changing profession that requires constant learning and adjustments.
Nevertheless, what is in my power is to set boundaries that guard against bitterness and resentment taking root. So, as I bid adieu to another winter break, I’m making a commitment to myself (maybe even a New Year’s resolution) that I will make the rest, relationships, and recreation of winter break a constant in my life.
Rest
I am committing to eight hours of sleep each night and the experience of down time every day. If I can’t accomplish that, then I will evaluate my workload and my commitments and adjust those, not my rest time. I can say no to school and out-of-school committees, I can analyze what student work I must assess and what work the students can assess themselves, and I can decide what can be left as good enough.
Relationships
Teachers are my closest friends. We get the ups and downs of our life’s work and can connect in conversations with little need for context. I need my BFAWs (best friends at work). But, I also need a true break from work, and that’s why friends who aren’t teachers are essential. Imagine sitting at a coffee shop for three hours with a friend and never talking about school. I did that over this past winter break. It was divine.
Recreation
Play and creative activities are also essential to our wellbeing. Drs. Brene Brown (The Gifts of Imperfection) and Saundra Dalton-Smith (Sacred Rest) are my greatest teachers in this arena. A couple of my BFAWs immersed themselves in drawing, painting, and coloring this past break. Another read just for enjoyment. I spent time taking care of my many houseplants, playing games, and watching some favorite shows with my kids. For 2024, I am committing to time in recreation (even just a tiny bit) every day.
Well, there they are. My resolutions for 2024 are on the internet for the world to see. No pressure, right? How will you hold onto winter break bliss through the daily grind of January, February, and March? I hope we can all support each other’s boundaries and commitments. I hope we can all value more rest, relationships, and recreation.
